High quality video pictures are being trialled by broadband providers NTL and BT, which may make ‘virtual dealerships’ a possibility in the near future.

According to Pinewood, the dealer management systems provider, some services could be in place by next year.

Pinewood believes online video technology could allow customers to access many dealership services in a virtual manner, ranging from booking a service with a receptionist through a video connection, to ‘visiting’ the showroom remotely with the help of a sales person equipped with a wireless camera.

Pinewood sales manager Geoff Miller, says: "The technology will give dealers the opportunity to extend their customer base more widely than ever before.

"For example, a potential customer at the other end of the country will be able to examine a used car in detail and make a purchasing decision without ever visiting the dealership.”